Gov. Moore Announces Launch Of New Assistance Resource To Improve Access To Health Care
Maryland Launches New Health Coverage Assistance Team to Improve Access to Care
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of the Health Coverage Assistance Team (H-CAT) by the Maryland Insurance Administration. The aim of this new resource is to help Marylanders overcome health care coverage challenges that often hinder access to care. The H-CAT team will provide personalized assistance to consumers, guiding them through health coverage questions and challenges while collaborating closely with other state agencies and organizations to optimize resources and prevent duplicated efforts.
Ensuring Comprehensive Support
Governor Moore emphasized, "Health care access entails more than just eligibility. It is crucial to partner together to ensure that Maryland residents are aware of all available resources to them and equipped with the necessary tools and guidance to make informed decisions." He expressed his excitement about the potential impact of this initiative in enhancing health care accessibility across communities nationwide.
Personalized Assistance and Advocacy
Through H-CAT, a trained staff member will offer direct, consistent, and personalized assistance, guiding consumers from the initial intake stage to resolution by H-CAT or other collaborative partners. The team is committed to providing information, assistance, and advocacy as needed to help consumers comprehend health coverage plans, their workings, covered services, and utilization of benefits. Additionally, H-CAT aims to assist consumers with health plan processes such as care authorizations, appeals, and complaints.
Focusing on Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
Maryland Insurance Commissioner Kathleen A. Birrane highlighted the team's dedication to aiding individuals in navigating health care coverage challenges, especially concerning mental health and substance use disorders. The goal is to eliminate coverage obstacles that often hinder individuals from accessing the necessary compensated care. H-CAT members are available to guide Maryland residents through these challenges and facilitate access to required compensated care.
Timely assistance and Comprehensive Support
H-CAT pledges to respond to consumer inquiries within one business day and follow specific step-by-step protocols tailored to different health coverage types. The assistance provided encompasses various aspects including understanding health plans, accessing providers or treatments, obtaining necessary referrals and authorizations, addressing service denials, and coordinating with other units for consumer assistance and market conduct interactions.
Accessible Assistance for All
Whether assisting with medication coverage denials or linking consumers to community health care resources, H-CAT ensures comprehensive support for individuals lacking legal documentation. The team collaborates seamlessly with other state entities like the Health Benefit Exchange and the Health Education and Advocacy Unit to offer relevant assistance.
Encouraging Support from State Leaders
Maryland Senate President Pro Tempore Malcolm Augustine and Delegate Bonnie Cullison praised the launch of H-CAT, emphasizing the importance of government agencies and consumer advocacy groups working together to ensure comprehensive health coverage support. The team's dedication to explaining the health coverage process and providing much-needed assistance has been met with enthusiasm from various stakeholders.
Accessing H-CAT
Marylanders can reach out to H-CAT directly through the team's webpage, via email at hcat.mia@maryland.gov, or by calling 410-468-2442. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing health care accessibility and support for individuals in Maryland.